Shooting Ranges Resource Guide

Shooting ranges are located throughout the United States and they
vary in type. Whether indoor or outdoor, they allow for
training
practice as well as for experienced gun owners to exercise their
skills. Most cities and overpopulated areas have indoor
shooting
ranges while rural areas may utilize outdoor facilities. Each
shooting range has its own rules, regulations and requirements
including the types of firearms used and how firearms enter and
exit
the premises. Though shooting ranges are designed to provide
the
safest atmosphere, there are concerns regarding exposure to toxic
levels of lead at various shooting ranges. Another concern
regarding shooting ranges is the noise level and the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) conducts regular reviews regarding these
levels.

Types of Shooting Ranges

There are several types of shooting ranges. These include
indoor shooting ranges, outdoor shooting ranges and target
ranges. Of
the three, indoor shooting ranges pose the greatest danger due to
high amounts of lead, high noise volume and other contaminants
that
may be present in the air.

Frequented by recreational city shooters and law enforcement
officers, indoor shooting ranges are very popular. It is
imperative that those who frequent indoor ranges take steps to
lessen
the effect of hazards. Those who spend time at shooting
ranges
are advised to use the Centers for Disease Control recommended
Lead
Tech Wipes that helps remove 99% of lead and other toxins from the
skin.

Those interested in shooting in different weather conditions or
who want to practice firing at long distance ranges may find that
outdoor shooting ranges are best. There are many security
measures that must be enacted in order for outdoor shooting ranges
to
operate safely. As with indoor ranges, exposure to high
amounts
of lead and toxic chemicals pose safety hazards for outdoor
ranges. The National Shooting Sports Foundation has a
searchable
listing of both indoor and outdoor shooting ranges by
state. You
may find ranges based upon the type of firearm used, such as
handgun,
shotgun and rifle as well as instructional and teaching ranges and
women and youth programs.

Safety Practices and Equipment

Safety is of the utmost importance, regardless of the type of
shooting range one frequents. Firearm safety is crucial and
it
is imperative that those who frequent firing ranges understand the
dangers and risks involved. There are several steps that
people
may take to ensure they are prepared for handling guns and to
minimize the risk of accidents.

Always handle your firearm as if it was loaded while at the same
time, ensuring it is only loaded when you are ready to
fire. Don’t
depend solely upon your firearm’s safety to prevent it from
firing,
but treat it as loaded at all times. Never place your finger
on
a firearm’s trigger unless you are ready to fire. When
firing,
consider what is beyond the target and not just the target
itself. Remain alert and aware of your environment, situation
and surroundings.

Each shooting range has its own safety rules that are
enforced. Familiarize yourself with the range’s rules
beforehand and make certain that you listen and obey all
instructions
from the Range Master. Shooting ranges require the use of eye
and hearing protection as these are essential. Always comply
with the range’s rules and wear the proper gear. If the range
requires the use of safety, vests then wear those as
well. Range
Masters work at shooting ranges in order to ensure the environment
remains one that is safe. Listen to their advice and if you
are
unsure of anything ask for help. Keep in mind that firearms
are
not toys but weapons and must be handled carefully. Never
leave
a loaded weapon unattended.

Classes/Services

Shooting ranges are educational as well as
recreational. Those
that are inexperienced with firearms should never feel intimidated
to
take instructional classes. Firing ranges offer a number of
different classes including using a handgun and those specifically
designed for new shooters. Check to determine what firearm is
taught in each class as the range may provide training in
handguns,
shotguns, rifles and even archery. Some instructors offer
private classes while others arrange a group setting. Other
options include obtaining concealed handgun licenses and other
training as well. Classes vary by range so call ahead to
determine which range best meets your needs.

Here are several links to various organizations as well as
information regarding shooting ranges throughout the United
States.

Which of the following is NOT one of the "Three Ws" that should be included in every hunting plan?

What firearm you are hunting with.Who you are with.When you are returning.Where you are going.

What technique can be described as "slow, patient movement of the hunter into shooting position after game has been located"?

Stand HuntingStalkingDrivingStill Hunting

Which species is there federal hunting laws for?

Wood DuckRing-knecked pheasantSnowshoe hareWhite-tailed Deer

Which field carry provides the most firearm control?

Two-handedCradleTrailSling

Which choice is NOT recommended when approaching downed wildlife?

Approach quietly from behind.Poke animal gently with a stick.Touch the eye gently, if there's no reaction, animal is usually dead.Shoot it again before approaching to make sure it is dead.

What is the technique known as "driving"?

One hunter sitting in a blind waiting for game to come along.One hunter moving slowly and patiently into shooting position after game has been located.One or more pushers walk through an area trying to move game ahead of them into areas wehre blockers are waiting.One hunter driving a vehicle and a second hunter in the back set shooting through the open window.

Scouting an area you want to hunt should include:

Walk around the area on opening day with your firearm or bow.Walk around the area looking for animal movements and signs.Look at maps and aerial photos of the area.Answers B and C.

Which of the following is NOT a reason why you should develop a hunting plan for every hunt?

So friends and family know how to contact you in case of emergency.So you can use your hunting plan to start a fire if you get lost.So fellow hunters know where you are located.So friends and family know where you can be found in case of a hunting accident.

Which of these items should be on every checklist included in your hunting plan?

Hunting licenseDecoysArrowsTreestand

Which of these does NOT violate a hunting safety rule?

Carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle.Keeping your finger on the trigger while stalking game.Two hunters shooting at the same game.Identifying what lies beyond an identified target.